The League of Conservation Voters announced an ad campaign today against Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., who is running for the U.S. Senate, for his alleged opposition to the American Clean Energy & Security Act. The green-minded organization advocates for environmental policies and campaigns for pro-environmental candidates who will adopt and implement their agenda as lawmakers.

The campaign features a pointed TV ad, "Believe," that labels Blunt as opposed to clean energy jobs and urges him to change his tune. Blunt is a member of the House Subcommittee on Energy and the Environment, which will vote on the bill next week. In a statement released on April 2, the congressman expressed opposition to new energy taxes.

The ad airs across Missouri and specifically targets Springfield, the heart of Blunt's district. In addition to TV ads, LCV also launched online ads and a direct mail program with the message that Blunt opposes clean energy jobs. Nearly six figures will be spent on the campaign, said LCV spokespeson Josh McNeil.

Blunt's 2010 Senate campaign denies the LCV's charges and calls the ad 'false' and 'dishonest'. "Roy Blunt favors affordable, clean energy, especially from sources here at home, including renewable energy and more U.S. gas and oil production, but he opposes a $3,000 energy tax on Missouri families," according to a statement issued today by Rich Chrismer, spokesperson for Blunt's Senate campaign.

Passing the American Clean Energy & Security Act is a top priority for LCV, said Tiernan Sittenfeld, the group's legislative director. The bill, introduced by Reps. Henry Waxman, D-Calif., and Edward Markey, D-Mass., promises to create jobs, end dependence on foreign oil, and combat global warming. 

                                                                                                               -- Eliza Krigman